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ETA News Release: [06/16/2008]
Contact Name: Jennifer Kaplan or Terry Shawn
Phone Number: (202) 693-5052 or x4676
Release Number: 08-0797-BOS

U.S. Department of Labor announces grant exceeding $317,000 to assist trade-affected workers in Maine

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Labor today announced a grant of $317,300 to the state of Maine to provide re-employment services to approximately 90 workers affected by the closure of San Antonio Shoe in Pittsfield. All of the company's affected workers previously were certified as eligible to apply for Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA).

"Workers who benefit from the TAA program also will be able to access additional services made available through today's grant," said acting Assistant Secretary for Employment and Training Brent R. Orrell. "The training and supportive services these programs offer will help these workers support their families during this transition and return to work as quickly as possible."

On January 28, San Antonio Shoe announced that it would permanently close its Pittsfield plant. On March 15, all of the affected workers were certified as eligible to apply for TAA. The funds awarded today to the Maine Department of Labor will provide services not covered under TAA, including skills assessment, counseling, case management and job search assistance.

National Emergency Grants are part of the secretary of labor's discretionary fund and are awarded based on a state's ability to meet specific guidelines. For more information, visit www.doleta.gov/NEG.